READ the whole question before you comment.

A frequently commented comments:

Comment: "Post all relevant data here"

Answer: I can't post 100 plus pages of 10-k finical data, Chegg will not let me. I cannot post a direct link or even put a link in the question because Chegg customer service throws a fit (like a 2 year old). So, you have to go SEC site yourself to look the data up. Instructions are included to find the file required.

Do not comment if you do not want to answer the question, just move on.

Thanks

Liquidity ratios are used by lenders to determine a corporations ability to meet current obligations. There is no magic number of what is good. Industry averages are a standard but you dont want to lend to or invest in the average company. In fact, some corporations like Dell have rewritten the standards in their industry by receiving immediate payment from their customers while making their suppliers wait months for payments. Nevertheless, they have a sound financial condition despite low liquidity ratios. As always, you must use your judgment for interpretation and try to understand why the ratios are what they are. You can find the ratios through each company's 10-k.

Go to the SEC website Go to the Filings tab: Company Filings Search. In the Company name box enter Gateway Inc and search. In the Filing Type box enter 10-K and search. Select the 10-K for 2005 filing date. Select: Document 1 file: d10k.htm.

Go to the SEC website Go to the Filings tab: Company Filings Search. In the Company name box enter Dell Inc and search. In the Filing Type box enter 10-K and click Retrieve Selected Filings. Select the 10-K for 2005 filing date. Select: d22995e10vk.htm.

Congratulations you have just arrived at Gateway Inc. and Dell Inc. 10-K filings of the 2004 annual reports!

Both of these companies are listed SIC 3571 Electronic Computers.

They have comparable products yet their financial results are significantly different.

1. Read both 10-K filings then compare, contrast and comment on their differences.

2. Give original comparative comments on one of the different aspects listed above?

3. Give your opinion as to the reason for the difference in results and attempt to arrive a consensus of which company would be better to work for and invest in?